Garden Sheds

The New Zealand lifestyle is busy, whether walking through the native bush, messing around on the water or completing the weekend DIY list. All of our activities and hobbies tend to require tools of the trade, from gardening equipment to sports gear, paddleboards to mountain bikes.

To store and protect all of your gear – you need a spacious, fit for purpose shed.

Let’s run through the basics of choosing the right shed for you.

First step is to assess what you will be using the shed for - is the shed your only storage area or will it be in support of your overflowing garage space?

Second, decide how much of your outdoor area you are willing to devote to the shed; this will dictate the size of shed you wish to purchase.

Thirdly, remember to look at what you will be storing in the shed and make sure you can not only fit the items in the shed, but importantly you can get them in through the door … do you need a single door or will a double door opening suit you better?

No building consent is required in New Zealand for a structure under 10 square metres.

So, what type of shed will you choose? Well the options are many, but there are some basics to consider.

Concrete Shed Base

Permanent foundations to a shed maybe you preference, pouring a 100mm recessed concrete floor allows you to have a solid foundation for the shed, providing a robust platform that will last years.

Of course once you’ve poured the concrete slab, you will be unable to move the shed to a different location – so take your time planning this option!

The frame of the shed will be attached to the concrete slab using 8mm bolts and a series of clamps to ensure a solid connection. Plans are provided by the shed manufacturer and, as always, follow the instructions for the best results.

Timber Shed Base

Keeping it simple can be a good option, you may need to move the shed over time, or perhaps your aspirations mean shifting house is a real possibility. Any way you look at it, a wooden substrate is light, practical and a perfect substrate from which to build you dream shed.

With all timber shed bases it is important to ensure the you allow for the windy conditions of our fair land. Securing the wooden floor to the base is essential and the use of pegs will accomplish this nicely.

What are your options?

Looking across the range of sheds available, one thing sticks out, and that is what material will you choose for your new shed? Let’s have a look at some of the options:

Steel

The use of steel for shed membranes is widespread and the reason is that it is light, easy to install, straight and doesn’t warp or fade over time. The strength and corrosion resistance of galvanised steel means you shed will stand the test of time, without the need for much maintenance at all.

For the conditions we experience in our country, metal sheds really do stack up – choose from a range of colours. Membranes over steel frames combines to give a shed that is robust and rigid, while easy to assemble.

Wood

Wooden sheds have a real classic look and the aesthetic appeal cannot be under estimated. Sitting in your garden or your back lawn the shed will not only be a functional space, but it has an impact on its surroundings and indeed on the style of your house too.

Wooden sheds will require some maintenance and failure to do so could result in the finish of the shed deteriorating over time. Put some thought into your thirst for DIY and how much time you have to spend maintaining the shed. It wont take a lot of your time but it will be another addition to your to do list.

From a pricing perspective Wooden sheds tend to be more, however getting the look you want and having something a little special usually commands more.

All wooden sheds are available in a range of sizes to suit your needs – browse our selections.

PVC

PVC sheds are the ultimate in lightweight and durability – the material does not fade or crack and the ability to keep you contents dry is a testament to the weather-tightness of PVC construction. Ranges of colours are available with new shades being released all the time.

The easy to manufacture nature of PVC means there is also a huge range of configurations and sizes, allowing you to choose the right shed for your particular needs.

Remember that the need for a weather tight and durable shed in New Zealand conditions is paramount and PVC might be just the material to stand up to the rigours of four seasons in one day!

Tools Required

Sheds that need assembly come complete with all the components you require and a full set of instructions to guide you through the process, however there are a few things you may need in addition.

Make sure you have a spare pair of hands, arrange for your partner, a friend or family member to help out for the day – it just makes life that much easier.

A screw gun or battery drill is essential and a full range of drill bits will make the job easier. Basics like a screwdriver, a tape measure and a ladder will ensure the assembly process is smooth and finally invest in a riveter if you have chosen the metal option.

For those with a general level of DIY skills this is a straightforward task, however if you are short of time then we can connect you with a local assembly service. Trade Tested are happy to help with all the tools and advice you need – simply contact us and talk to our friendly and knowledgeable team.